The government has extended the temporary adjustment of sulphur limits in petrol and diesel by a further six months as the country moves to safeguard petroleum supplies amid continued geopolitical uncertainty in the Middle East and disruptions to global petroleum supply chains.
The extension was announced by Trade Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui through a press statement issued on Wednesday, November 11, following a request from the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum and recommendation by the National Standards Council.
“The decision follows a technical assessment and monitoring of the continuing geopolitical uncertainty in the Middle East and related disruptions affecting global petroleum supply chains, including the Strait of Hormuz,” Kinyanjui said.
Under the extended arrangement, petroleum products imported into Kenya will be allowed to contain a maximum sulphur concentration of 50 milligrams per kilogram (50mg/kg), equivalent to 50 parts per million (50ppm).
The adjustment applies to two fuel standards: KS EAS 177:2025, which governs automotive gas oil (diesel), and KS EAS 158:2025, covering automotive gasoline, commonly known as premium motor spirit (petrol).
CS Kinyanjui said the decision followed concerns raised by petroleum sector stakeholders over difficulties sourcing fuel that met Kenya’s stricter quality requirements.
The extension is intended to expand the range of international fuel suppliers from which Kenya can source compliant petroleum products, thereby reducing the country’s exposure to potential supply interruptions.
The government said the temporary adjustment would widen the available sources of fuel that meet the applicable requirements and help protect Kenya against possible petroleum shortages.
The extension will remain in force for six months, after which authorities will review the measure.
Sulphur content is an important fuel-quality parameter, as higher sulphur levels can contribute to air pollution and increase sulphur-related emissions from vehicle exhausts.
The latest update comes as the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) prepares to announce new fuel prices for the November 15 to December 14, 2026 pricing cycle later this week.
